At a time when the Ministry of Interior & Police, under a new minister, is cracking down on businesses that impact peace and calm in neighborhoods, Diario Libre tells the story of a religious business that has taken over an area in affluent Bella Vista.
An evangelical pastor Yesenia Then, and her businesses, apparently have the support of the Ministry of Public and the city government of the National District. But their sprawling operation has become a nightmare for residents in Bella Vista neighborhood. The pastor is growing her religious business in violation of the rights of the residents.
Diario Libre reports on complaints by the residents in areas around the Francisco Moreno Street in Bella Vista. A significant portion of the street has been transformed into a private parking lot, complete with barriers and signs indicating exclusive access. This encroachment is primarily attributed to the evangelical church and the business group Centro Cristiano Soplo de Vida, which own properties in the area.
Diario Libre explains that on days of religious services and other activities, which occur several times a week, the narrow street becomes gridlocked. Uniformly dressed men are stationed throughout the area to direct the parking of church members’ vehicles, which often spill over into nearby streets and even the entrance to different Bella Vista condominium complexes.
The situation has led to numerous complaints from residents who are unable to access or exit their homes due to the blocked entrances. The encroachment on public space has also raised concerns about pedestrian safety and the potential for traffic accidents.
The religious business began where once there was but the Chino de Mariscos Chinese food restaurant. The religious business now has spread out to house a restaurant, a cafeteria, a bookstore, a worship hall, and the headquarters of the Manos en Acción Foundation. Residents and other local businesses in the area are impacted by the limited parking availability. Some businesses have reported a decline in foot traffic due to the difficulty of finding parking.
As the situation continues to escalate, residents and business owners are calling for authorities to intervene and address the issue. Diario Libre reporters note that despite the open violations, the Ministry of Public Works has carried out improvements that benefit the religious business and that the city government would have received pay to authorize the encroachment by the religious business.
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Diario Libre
16 September 2024